5 Inclusions Every Occupational Therapy New Graduate Program Should Have

Starting your first (or second) job out of university can feel exciting… and overwhelming. You might be coming straight off placement and ready to jump in—or you might be months out and barely remember how to explain what occupational therapy is, let alone run your own caseload! That’s why a well-structured New Grad Program is so important.

But not all programs are created equal. Just calling it a “New Grad Program” doesn’t make it supportive. Here’s what we believe every graduate program should include:

1. Shadowing

Shadowing—also known as co-consulting—is a powerful way to build skills and confidence. It gives new grads a chance to see different therapy styles, observe how sessions are planned and adapted, and gradually build toward independent practice. It also benefits clients, offering dual perspectives and the ability to support both children and caregivers simultaneously.

2. Regular, Protected Supervision

Supervision should be scheduled (ideally weekly) and protected. It’s time to unpack challenges, celebrate wins, ask questions, and get help with planning and clinical reasoning. Access to support throughout the week is important—but having reliable time to reflect and grow with a supervisor is non-negotiable.

3. Ongoing Training & PD

University prepares you to think like an OT, but it can’t cover every tool or approach. A strong program will include training in assessments (like the M-FUN), interventions (like the Zones of Regulation), and internal systems (like therapy planning or note writing). You should have space to explore, practice, and refine your skills without pressure.

4. Gradual Caseload Build-Up

We all enter this field to help others—but that doesn’t mean you should be handed a full caseload in Week 1. A staged approach allows you to:

• Build relationships with clients at your own pace

• Research relevant presentations

• Learn clinic systems

• Avoid all your assessments or reviews being due at once

Gradual onboarding supports both you and your clients.

5. Space to Make Mistakes

You will make mistakes—and that should be expected, not feared. The right program will support this with:

• Scripts for moments you don’t have the answer

• Reassurance if you need to call in sick

• Repeat training when something hasn’t quite stuck

Being a new grad is enough of a challenge—your workplace shouldn’t add to the stress.

In Conclusion

A truly supportive New Grad Program is about more than just onboarding. It’s about creating an environment where you can grow, ask questions, try new things, and feel safe doing so. If you’re looking for a workplace that will champion your development (while having a few laughs along the way), make sure your next move includes all five of these essentials.

Interested in joining our New Grad Program?

Contact Hannah for a no-obligation chat:

📧 hannah.lees@jjot.com.au | 📞 0422 755 004